Despite Jairam's rap, SUVs become big hits in India

While Toyota has been repeatedly forced to shut bookings for its SUV, demand for the BMW X1 is a step better, with customer queuing to buy the vehicle although the German company is yet to formally open bookings for it.

The SUV, whose deliveries will commence in January, will be the cheapest model from BMW to be sold in India.

Despite Jairam's rap, SUVs become big hits in India

According to BMW dealers, since booking for the X1 hasn't been opened yet, customers are instead booking the 3-Series and are asking for this to be replaced with the X1 when BMW starts accepting bookings for the latter.

Despite Jairam's rap, SUVs become big hits in India

Rough estimates suggest the 'order bank' (a term used to describe the actual demand even before bookings open) for the X1 will touch 1,000 units, as the two dealerships from Mumbai alone have clocked about 300 units.

"If you are booking the X1 now, you will only get the vehicle in May," said a BMW dealer.

Despite Jairam's rap, SUVs become big hits in India

Toyota says it does not expect any significant impact on demand for the Fortuner following the launch of the BMW X1.

"They are two very different vehicles, with distinct characteristics. However, generally when there is a huge waiting period for a model, then people certainly will try to explore other options," said Singh.